Bioactive Compounds from Garcinia Fruits of High Economic Value for Food and Health

Abstract

Garcinias (Mangosteen, Brindle berry, and Kokum) are tropical fruits, and are rich source of nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibers. They are also abundant with bioactive compounds namely xanthones, benzophenones, hydroxycitric acid, and anthocyanins. Many studies have detailed that these compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiallergy, antiulcer, antiparasitic, and antihelminthic activities to aid in human health and also weight loss and appetite-reducing properties, making them good dietary supplements. Therefore, bioactive compounds extracted from Garcinia fruits could be used in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. This review presents an overview of the bioactive compounds derived from Garcinia fruits and their biological activities for promoting human health as food and drug.